“The RCN welcomes the steps the Government has taken to monitor and review patients’ experiences in the National Health Service. Nurses have always been particularly concerned that attention is paid to the essentials of care, such as dignity, privacy, hygiene and nutrition. These are fundamental, and affect patients’ perceptions of the quality of care they receive and often their clinical outcomes."

"99% of patients surveyed felt that they were treated with dignity and respect and that the hospital environment was clean, tidy and not cluttered – which is fantastic given that many of our hospitals are older buildings and difficult to maintain. These excellent results were maintained for a year and a testament to the outstanding care offered in the NHS."

"However, only 84% of patients were able to get a good night’s sleep and rest during their hospital stay, down from 86% the previous year. There is room for improvement in this area of the patient experience, and in terms of the patient who spends a long period in hospital- lack of sleep makes them more vulnerable during their illness or rehabilitation."

"Overall, the results of the audit illustrate that patients across Wales have been pleased with the care they have received in our health service. It proves that high quality care can be achieved when patients’ all around needs are understood and met."